Description: Guerrilla tactics are unconventional strategies used to disrupt and confuse the opponent. In the context of cybersecurity, these tactics are applied in the confrontation between Red Teams and Blue Teams. The Red Team simulates real attacks to identify vulnerabilities in systems and networks, while the Blue Team is responsible for defending and protecting those systems. Guerrilla tactics in this field involve the use of surprising and deceptive techniques, such as phishing attacks, exploitation of unknown vulnerabilities, and rapid movements to evade detection. These tactics aim to destabilize the Blue Team’s defenses, generating confusion and making it difficult to respond to attacks. The unpredictable nature of these strategies makes them highly effective, as they force the defending team to constantly adapt to new threats and improve their security protocols. In summary, guerrilla tactics are essential in the cat-and-mouse game that unfolds between attackers and defenders in cyberspace, highlighting the importance of creativity and adaptability in cybersecurity.
History: The term ‘guerrilla’ comes from Spanish and refers to combat tactics used by irregular forces. Its use in military contexts became popular during the independence wars in Latin America and in Europe during the 19th century. Over time, the concept has adapted to different contexts, including cybersecurity, where guerrilla tactics have become an integral part of attack and defense strategies.
Uses: Guerrilla tactics are primarily used in situations where resources are limited and the goal is to maximize impact through surprise and confusion. In cybersecurity, they are applied for penetration testing, attack simulations, and in creating more robust defense strategies. These tactics allow Red Teams to assess the effectiveness of Blue Team defenses and, in turn, help Blue Teams improve their security protocols.
Examples: An example of guerrilla tactics in cybersecurity is the use of highly personalized phishing attacks that trick employees into revealing credentials. Another example is the exploitation of zero-day vulnerabilities, where attackers use unknown flaws to infiltrate systems before the Blue Team has a chance to defend against them.
